Police Probe Allegations of Election Campaign Mobilization
Authorities are investigating claims that a former mayoral candidate’s affiliated group mobilized its employees to support his election campaign. The allegations center on Jeong Han-mo, a former candidate for Busan mayor and head of the On Group. The On Group operates several organizations, including On Byeongwon, which was involved in an incident where Jeong Han-mo claimed to have been injured by a beverage tossed from a car.
Investigators are examining whether Jeong Han-mo’s political campaign directed On Group employees to post supportive comments on social media during the election period. The probe also seeks to determine if employees were instructed to join the campaign. Such actions could potentially violate election laws, which prohibit the use of professional positions or organizational influence to solicit campaign support from members.
Previous Investigation into Assault Allegations
This development follows a separate investigation into an alleged assault incident involving Jeong Han-mo. In late April, Jeong Han-mo claimed he was struck by a beverage thrown from a moving vehicle near the Nadeulmok area in Geumjeong-gu, Busan. He subsequently received medical treatment, including a diagnosis of a concussion and sprain, at On Byeongwon, an affiliate of the On Group.
During that investigation, authorities questioned a man in his 30s who was identified as the alleged assailant. Law enforcement also conducted a search of Jeong Han-mo’s campaign office, examining evidence for potential charges of obstructing official duties and making false statements.
